Unfortunaltely I have no pictures with me to post at present. So in compensation, a thousand words should do.
Here I go.
I went to El Escorial this past weekend only to be confoudned and amazed yet again. Not just a cultural appreciation for Spain but for people who dedicate themselves and their entire life pursuit to knowledge and the beauty that is the result. For those who don´t know, El Escorial is a monastery and school built by Philip the Second in the sixteenth century. During Philip´s reign it functioned as his retreat and public relation center, as well as a monastery, school, and burial grounds for royalty. Now it is still a monastery and school, along with guided tours for the public. I walked through shadowy and drafty hallways of granite, along with other curious tourists and could even hear the monks´ songs through the corridors. Certainly an uncommon experience for me.
We first were taken into the library which, the tour guide said, is the most ´important´ in the world. Important, I suppose, is quite subjective, but his description was that they housed books from the 5th century (I wonder though, if that was a language confusion) and the rarity of their collection is where it derives its importance. Along the ceiling was painted a mural of the seven sciences (philosophy, astronomy, theology, etc.) corresponding with the placement of the books. Certainly more esthetically pleasing then the Dewey Decimal. I had an alarmingly strong desire to stay there the rest of my life and learn along with the monks about life. I don´t think API would allow for it- maybe with a permission slip.
Indeed it was an excellent trip, and one of my favorites thus far. As November lurks only 4 days out of sight, anxiety sets in about returning to the real world. It is the Sunday night sensation, but a bit stronger. So, I will embrace all that I can in these next two months and do my best to maintain my memories and lessons!
3 comments:
becca! it is so good to hear about you. try not to be anxious already- you are only halfway through with still 2 months to go. it is wonderful that you are enjoying your time so much that you want it to last forever. i'm so glad it has been such a positive experience for you. that monestary sounds so peaceful and beautiful and mysterious. what else did you do last week? do you go out every night, or sometimes stay in and have supper with carmen and read a book? do they observe holloween in spain? if so, are you doing anything for it? i'm going to be a fall fairy at a party at kerry's barn. i love you and miss you and ache to hear about you every day.
Dear Becca,
After my French test last week, I am again very impressed that you are living in another country and speaking their language! How incredible.
Kaelin and I were reminiscing about you the other day. It reminded me that I am very glad you have not permanently moved to Spain. With that in mind, I will do everything in my power to intercept your receiving any such permission slip.
God bless you,
Annie
You have quite a beautiful travel log... such pretty photos.
Kudos.
Carlos.
=)
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